The Sea of Trees

I have to start this review by noting something. When "The Forest" was released, there was a lot of backlash against the film, saying it didn't do justice to Japan's "suicide forest" and Japanese culture. I think that if we, as a culture, are going to point out when a film does something wrong, as was the case with "The Forest", we should also be ready to point out when one does it right. "The Sea of Trees" is the film that those bashing "The Forest" wanted to see. It is a reverent, dark, tragic, and yet ultimately uplifting and magical film about the culture of suicide, both in Japan and in America. It is some of the best work Gus Van Sant has done of late, and one of the most powerful performances McConaughey has given in a while. It is thoughtful, slow paced, and very packed with emotions. I went from weeping to laughing to weeping again before it was over. "The Sea of Trees" should be celebrated as the film many wanted to see made. I know I very much loved it. 4.5/5

The Sea of Trees on Netflix